Ever noticed how your old buddy, the senior horse, is just like that one friend who keeps saying, “Back in my day”? Aging horses need some extra TLC, especially regarding their diet.
Just like us, their nutritional needs change as they get older. And, let’s be honest, no one wants a grumpy, hungry horse on their hands.
So, let’s dive into the world of senior horse feeds. We’ll explore the best options to keep your equine friend happy, healthy, and full of life. Because even in their golden years, they deserve the best.
Ready to learn more? Let’s get started.
Best Senior Horse Feed
- Most Veterinarian Recommended Senior Horse Feed – Purina | Equine Senior Horse Feed
- Best Weight Accelerator Feeds – Manna Pro Weight Accelerator For Senior Horses
- Best Senior Horse Feed Treat – Nutrigood Senior Snax Horse Treats
- Best Joint Support Feed – Legacy Pellets Joint Support for Senior Horses
- Best Pellets Senior Horse Feed – TRIBUTE Kalmbach Feeds Seniority Pellet
- Best Powder Horse Feed – Farnam Weight Builder Horse Weight Supplement
- Best Feed for Horses With Metabolic Issues – Triple Crown Senior
- Best Non-GMO Feed – Renew Gold Supplement for Senior Horses
- Best Beet Pulp-Based Feed – Nutrena ProForce Senior Horse Feed
What is a Senior Horse?
A senior horse is just like an older person. As horses age, their needs change. A horse is considered senior at around 15 to 20 years old.
But it can vary, just like with people. Some horses age gracefully and stay spry well into their 20s, while others might start showing signs of aging earlier.
These signs can include weight loss, dental problems, and slower movement. They might not process food as well as they used to.
Their joints can get stiff, and they may need extra care to stay healthy and happy. So, when we talk about senior horses, we’re talking about our older equine friends who need more attention and the right feed to thrive.
Feeding Problems Common With Senior Horses
Feeding senior horses can come with a set of challenges. Here are some common feeding problems:
Dental issues. Older horses often have worn or missing teeth, making it hard to chew hay and other tough feeds.
Weight loss. As they age, horses might struggle to maintain weight due to decreased digestive efficiency and slower metabolism.
Loss of muscle mass. With age, horses can lose muscle, requiring more protein in their diet to help maintain muscle mass.
Decreased appetite. Sometimes, senior horses don’t feel like eating as much, leading to nutritional deficiencies.
Digestive problems. Older horses can have difficulty digesting food, leading to colic or diarrhea.
Nutrient absorption. Aging horses may not absorb nutrients as effectively, meaning they need more easily digestible and nutrient-dense feeds.
Joint issues. Older horses often suffer from arthritis or other joint problems, requiring feeds that support joint health.
Choking hazards. With dental problems and a slower chewing pace, senior horses are at higher risk of choking on their feed.
Understanding Senior Horse Nutritional Needs
Caring for a senior horse is like looking after an elderly friend. They need a bit more attention, especially regarding their diet.
As horses age, their nutritional needs change. Understanding these needs can make a huge difference in their health and happiness.
Let’s dive into what it takes to keep your senior horse well-fed and thriving.
Determine nutritional needs
Senior horses need a bit more care with their diet. Their bodies change as they age, and they might need more or less certain nutrients.
Monitor their weight, energy levels, and overall health to determine their needs. It’s all about balance.
Identify health conditions early
Catching health issues early is key. Older horses are more prone to arthritis, Cushing’s disease, and metabolic issues.
Regular check-ups with the vet can help spot these problems before they become big issues. Early detection means better management.
Check for dental issues
Teeth wear down over time. Senior horses might have trouble chewing because of worn or missing teeth.
Regular dental check-ups can prevent pain and help ensure they can eat properly. If chewing is a problem, softer feeds or soaked hay might be necessary.
Select an appropriate forage
Good quality forage is a must. Hay or pasture should be easy to chew and digest.
Look for softer hays, or consider hay pellets and cubes. This makes it easier for your senior horse to get the nutrients they need without struggling.
Feed digestible protein sources
Older horses need protein to maintain muscle mass, but it has to be easy to digest. Look for feeds that include soybean meal, alfalfa, or other high-quality protein sources.
These will help keep your horse strong and healthy.
Ensure adequate water intake
Hydration is crucial. Older horses might not drink as much as they should, which can lead to dehydration and other health problems.
Make sure they always have access to clean, fresh water. Adding a bit of salt to their diet can encourage them to drink more.
Related read: How often should horses drink water?
Observe herd dynamics
Pay attention to how your senior horse interacts with the herd. Older horses can get pushed around by younger, more dominant ones, which might limit their access to food.
If this happens, you might need to feed them separately to ensure they have enough to eat.
Ensure vitamin and mineral requirements are met
Senior horses need the right vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. These include calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin E.
Make sure their diet is balanced and consider supplements if necessary. A vet or equine nutritionist can help with this.
The Benefits of Feeding a Senior Horse the Proper Nutrition
Feeding a senior horse the proper nutrition comes with many benefits:
- Good nutrition helps keep your senior horse healthy, reducing the risk of diseases and conditions common in older horses.
- Proper feeding helps maintain a healthy weight, preventing both weight loss and obesity.
- Easily digestible feeds improve digestive efficiency, reducing issues like colic and diarrhea.
- Adequate protein intake helps maintain muscle mass, keeping your horse strong and active.
- A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals promotes a shiny coat and strong hooves.
- The right nutrients provide energy, keeping your horse lively and engaged in their activities.
- Feeds with added joint support can ease arthritis and other joint problems, improving mobility.
- Proper nutrition, including softer feeds, helps manage dental issues, making eating easier and more comfortable.
- Overall, a well-balanced diet can contribute to a longer, happier life for your senior horse.
Types of Senior Horse Feeds
Let’s explore the different types of senior horse feeds and how they can benefit our horses:
1. Complete feeds
Complete feeds are designed to be a one-stop solution. They contain all the necessary nutrients and can replace hay or pasture. These are great for horses with dental issues who can’t chew hay well.
2. Supplemental feeds
Supplemental feeds are added to a horse’s regular diet. They provide extra nutrients that might be missing from their usual feed. This can include vitamins, minerals, and protein.
3. Specialized senior feeds
These feeds are formulated specifically for older horses. They often include added benefits like joint support, probiotics for digestion, and higher fiber content to aid in overall health.
4. High-fiber feeds
High-fiber feeds are important for senior horses. They help maintain digestive health and can be easier to chew. Options include beet pulp, hay pellets, and hay cubes.
5. Low-sugar feeds
Low-sugar feeds are ideal for senior horses with metabolic issues or Cushing’s disease. These feeds help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of laminitis.
6. Soaked feeds
Soaked feeds are easier for horses with dental problems to eat. You can soak hay pellets, hay cubes, or even some complete feeds to make them softer and easier to chew.
7. High-protein feeds
As horses age, they might need more protein to maintain muscle mass. High-protein feeds, like those with added soybean meal or alfalfa, help meet this need.
8. Joint support feeds
Some senior feeds include ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. These are beneficial for older horses with arthritis or other joint issues.
Common Ingredients in Senior Horse Feeds
The ingredients in senior horse feeds are:
- Beet pulp
- Soybean meal
- Alfalfa
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Rice bran
- Vitamins and minerals
- Molasses
- Glucosamine and chondroitin
Best Senior Horse Feeds (Product Review)
1. Most Veterinarian Recommended Senior Horse Feed – Purina | Equine Feed
Looking for the best feed for your senior horse? Try Purina’s Equine Senior Horse Feed. It’s the #1 veterinarian-recommended senior horse feed. Four out of five equine vets recommend it.
This feed includes ActivAge Prebiotic Technology, which helps support the aging immune system and mobility. It also has controlled sugar and starch levels for a healthy metabolic response.
Purina Amplify High-Fat Nugget adds fatty acids from rice bran, flaxseed, and vegetable oils for a shiny coat and good body condition.
Outlast Gastric Support aids in gastric health and comfort. Plus, the easy-soak pellet technology makes it perfect for horses with dental issues. Just soak it in water for a soft, easy-to-chew mash.
2. Best Weight Accelerator Feeds – Manna Pro Weight Accelerator For Senior Horses
Looking for the best weight gain supplement for your senior horse? Try Manna Pro Weight Accelerator.
It’s packed with Omega-3 fatty acids and flaxseed. This supplement helps with weight gain, skincare, and digestive health.
With active ingredients like ascorbic acid and vitamin E, it supports overall health and boost antioxidant levels. The stick form makes it easy to feed, and it comes in an 8-pound package.
Manna Pro Weight Accelerator is a great choice if your senior horse needs extra help to maintain a healthy weight. It’s simple, effective, and highly recommended for older horses.
3. Best Senior Horse Feed Treat – Nutrigood Senior Snax Horse Treats
Nutrigood Senior Snax Horse Treats are a fantastic choice for your senior horse. These apple-flavored treats are perfect for older horses with dental issues. They are easy to chew and packed with benefits.
Nutrigood Senior Snax contains natural glucosamine for healthy joints and connective tissues. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids from ground flaxseed, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Biotin is included to support strong, healthy hooves. These treats are healthy and delicious, with ingredients like ground oats, brown sugar, and dried egg products.
Your senior horse will love the taste, and you’ll love the health benefits. Nutrigood Senior Snax – the best senior horse feed treat!
4. Best Joint Support Feed – Legacy Pellets Joint Support for Senior Horses
Legacy Pellets Joint Support is the ultimate feed for senior horses needing joint care. Specifically formulated for horses 15 years and older, it’s packed with all the right stuff.
Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM support joints and connective tissues. Yucca and ester-C help reduce inflammation, while vitamin E boosts overall health.
These pellets are more than just a feed. They’re like a spa day for your horse’s joints. Easy to feed and highly effective, they make a noticeable difference.
Keep your old friend moving like they’re still in their prime with Legacy Pellets because every senior horse deserves to feel young again.
5. Best Pellets Senior Horse Feed – TRIBUTE Kalmbach Feeds Seniority Pellet
TRIBUTE Kalmbach Feeds Seniority Pellet is top-notch for senior horses. This no-corn formula means lower sugar and starch, which is perfect for older horses. Its highly digestible fiber makes it a great complete feed.
The optimal balance of essential amino acids and organic minerals supports aging and muscle maintenance. Plus, it features EquiFerm XL, a microencapsulated active dry yeast that acts as both a pre-and probiotic. This boosts digestibility and improves overall gut health.
These pellets are like a health boost in every bite. Keep your senior horse feeling spry and healthy with TRIBUTE Kalmbach Feeds Seniority Pellet.
It’s the best choice for your aging equine friend.
6. Best Powder Horse Feed – Farnam Weight Builder Horse Weight Supplement
Farnam Weight Builder Horse Weight Supplement is a game-changer. This powder feed helps maintain optimal weight and body condition with its high-fat formula.
It’s packed with 50% fat, offering more calories than grain without added sugar. This means safe, easily digestible calories that won’t upset your horse’s stomach.
Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed meal and stabilized rice bran promote healthy skin and a glossy coat. Plus, it delivers controlled energy to meet performance demands. The palatable powder mixes easily with regular grain, making feeding a breeze.
A 7.5 lb. tub provides a 30-day supply at 4 oz. per day. Part of the Horse Care Loyalty Rewards Program, it’s a smart choice for your horse’s health. Enroll today and keep your horse in top shape with Farnam Weight Builder.
7. Best Feed for Horses With Metabolic Issues – Triple Crown Senior
Triple Crown Senior is the top choice for horses with metabolic issues. This high-fat, grain-free feed is beet pulp-based, making it ideal for older horses. It’s perfect for mature horses, hard keepers, rescues, and even those with ulcers or COPD.
This feed is gentle on the digestive system, and its balanced formula supports overall health. It can even be used as a complete diet. Triple Crown Senior ensures your horse gets the nutrition they need without the risks associated with grains.
Keep your horse healthy and happy with this exceptional feed. Triple Crown Senior – the best for your special horse.
8. Best Non-GMO Senior Horse Feed – Renew Gold Supplement for Senior Horses
Renew Gold Supplement for Senior Horses is a standout choice for non-GMO senior horse feed. It supports joint and digestive health, ensuring your horse gets the multi-spectrum support they need.
High-fat stabilized rice bran, CoolStance coconut meal, ground peas, and stabilized ground whole flax provide a controlled starch load (15%) base.
Thanks to the coconut meal, this feed promotes cool, focused energy. It’s, therefore, perfect for both senior and high-performance horses.
Renew Gold Senior is formulated with non-GMO ingredients, ensuring your horse gets a natural, wholesome diet. It’s an excellent choice if you want the best for your senior equine friend.
9. Best Beet Pulp-Based Feed – Nutrena ProForce Senior Horse Feed
Nutrena ProForce Senior Horse Feed is the top choice for beet pulp-based nutrition. This feed offers a balanced, high-fiber diet for senior horses. Beet pulp is a key ingredient, providing easily digestible fiber to support gut health.
Nutrena ProForce is fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. This helps maintain muscle mass and overall health. The high-fat content provides extra energy, perfect for keeping older horses active and lively.
This feed’s easy-to-chew texture sets this feed apart, ideal for horses with dental issues. It also includes prebiotics and probiotics to boost digestive efficiency. Nutrena ProForce is a complete, all-in-one feed that meets the unique needs of senior horses.
Keep your senior horse healthy and happy with Nutrena ProForce. It’s the best beet pulp-based feed on the market.
Read also: Best Calmer for Horses.
What to Look for When Choosing a Senior Horse Feed
When choosing a senior horse feed, consider a few key things:
High fiber content. Older horses need fiber for good digestion. Look for feeds with beet pulp or other high-fiber ingredients.
Easily digestible. Senior horses might have trouble digesting certain foods. Choose feeds that are easy on the stomach, like those with prebiotics and probiotics.
Protein levels. Adequate protein helps maintain muscle mass. Check for high-quality protein sources like soybean meal or alfalfa.
Joint support. Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin can help with joint health. These are great for horses with arthritis or stiffness.
Low sugar and starch. To avoid metabolic issues, pick feeds with low sugar and starch. This helps manage conditions like Cushing’s disease.
Added vitamins and minerals. Look for feeds fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Things like vitamin E, selenium, and calcium are important.
Easy to chew. If your horse has dental problems, pick a feed that’s easy to chew. Pellets or mashes that can be soaked in water are good options.
Palatability. Make sure the feed is tasty. If it doesn’t taste good, your horse might not eat it.
Specialized formulas. Consider feeds made specifically for senior horses. They’re designed to meet the unique needs of aging equines.
How to Feed Your Senior Horse for Optimum Nutrition
Feeding your senior horse for optimum nutrition starts with understanding their changing needs.
As horses age, their digestive systems can become less efficient. This means they might not absorb nutrients as well as they used to. Begin by selecting a high-fiber feed that’s easy to digest.
Ingredients like beet pulp and alfalfa are great choices. They provide the necessary fiber and are gentle on the stomach.
Next, focus on protein. Older horses need adequate protein to maintain muscle mass. Look for feeds with high-quality protein sources, such as soybean meal or flaxseed.
These ingredients support muscle health and overall vitality. Also, choose feeds that are low in sugar and starch. This helps manage metabolic conditions like Cushing’s disease, which can be common in senior horses.
Joint health is another crucial aspect. Senior horses often suffer from arthritis or joint stiffness. Opt for feeds that contain joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin.
These help maintain joint function and ease discomfort. Additionally, feeds fortified with essential vitamins and minerals are vital. Ensure the feed includes vitamin E, selenium, and calcium to support overall health and immune function.
Dental issues are common in senior horses, so choose an easy-to-chew feed. Pelleted feeds or those that can be soaked into a mash are ideal. They make it easier for horses with dental problems to get the nutrition they need.
Regular feeding schedules are also important. Split their daily ration into several smaller meals to help with digestion and nutrient absorption. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water to keep them hydrated.
Frequency of Feedings for Senior Horses
As horses age, their digestive systems can become less efficient. This means they benefit from more frequent, smaller meals rather than a few large ones. Aim to feed your senior horse three to four times a day.
This frequent feeding schedule helps maintain consistent energy levels and promotes better digestion. It can also prevent weight loss, as older horses might struggle to consume enough calories in one or two feedings.
If your horse has dental problems, consider feeding a soft, soaked mash several times a day. This will make it easier for them to eat and ensure they’re getting enough nutrition. Always make sure fresh water is available, as hydration is key to digestion.
Tips for Feeding Senior Horses
The following tips can help ensure your senior horse stays healthy and happy.
- Choose high-fiber feeds
- Provide easily digestible protein
- Opt for low sugar and starch
- Include joint support ingredients
- Select easy-to-chew feeds
- Ensure adequate vitamins and minerals
- Feed small, frequent meals
- Monitor weight and condition
- Provide plenty of fresh water
- Consult a veterinarian
FAQS
What is the best senior horse feed for weight gain?
For weight gain, the Manna pro weight accelerator is an excellent choice. It’s high in fat and provides easily digestible calories without added sugar, helping senior horses gain weight safely.
Are senior horses fed high in sugar?
No, senior horses should not be fed high in sugar. High sugar can lead to metabolic issues and other health problems. It’s better to choose feeds low in sugar and starch.
What is the best complete feed for senior horses?
The best complete feed for senior horses is Triple Crown Senior. It’s beet pulp-based, grain-free, and formulated to support the unique needs of older horses, including those with metabolic and dental issues.
Conclusion
Choosing the best feed for your senior horse doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right nutrition, your aging friend can stay happy, healthy, and full of life.
Remember, your go-tos are high-fiber, low-sugar, and easy-to-chew options. Look for joint support and ensure their feed contains essential vitamins and minerals. And hey, don’t forget those tasty treats they love.
Your senior horse has given you years of companionship and joy. Now it’s your turn to give back with the best nutrition possible.
Ready to see your old buddy thrive? Start feeding them right today and watch them enjoy their golden years.
